In more details, the Analytical Report states:

4.25. Chapter 25: Science and research

Good progress has been made in the area of research and innovation policy. The budget for funding research projects at national level has been increased and several measures have been taken to strengthen research and innovation capacity. Preparations in this area are on track.

Some progress has been made with regard to research cooperation under the Seventh EU Research Framework Programme (FP7). Montenegro has strengthened its administrative capacity by expanding the network of national contact points and has organised Information Days and training sessions on research cooperation with European and other international partners (e.g. China). Successful participation has slightly increased, but remains particularly weak in terms of participation of SMEs and Marie Curie grants under the Specific Programme ‘People’. Further efforts are necessary with a view to participating in the next EU Research and Innovation Programme ‘Horizon 2020’. Preparations in this area are on track.

Some progress can be noted with regard to Montenegro’s integration into the European Research Area (ERA). The budget for the national funding programme has increased and has been allocated in a transparent and competitive manner and in line with EU priorities in terms of thematic areas. Funding has also been used to stimulate mobility of researchers. Montenegro has become a full member of EUREKA and applied for membership in COST. Collection of statistics on investment in research has improved. The level of investment in research has increased from 0.13% to 0.45% of GDP. However, the level of investment by the private sector remains very low. Further steps have been taken to establish the first centre of excellence. A business plan to establish a Science and Technology Park has also been prepared aiming at improving the transfer of knowledge and cooperation between academia and industry. Several measures have been taken to encourage SMEs to innovate. Further efforts based on the Innovation Union flagship are, however, necessary, in particular preparation for the self-assessment tool. Preparations in this area are on track.

Conclusion
Good progress has been made in the area of science and research. Further efforts are necessary to strengthen research and innovation capacity at national level and facilitate integration into the European Research Area. The level of investment in research needs to be further increased in particular from the private sector and by stimulating public and private investment in scientific research activities. Overall, preparations are on track.

Source: EC Europa